Trent Pohlmann is developing a device that will detect illicit drugs and bombsA Rockhampton forensic science researcher is developing portable electrochemical devices that will detect illicit drugs and explosives.

Central Queensland University's Trent Pohlmann has begun a 3 to 4-year PhD project that aims to produce a device that will help target the illicit substance abuse epidemic and the threat of terrorism globally.

To date, drug and explosive measuring devices that are portable, sensitive and accurate have not been designed. Existing devices also don't measure multiple types of drugs or explosives in one single analysis.

"A simple example of an electrochemical device commonly used is blood glucose meters used by diabetics to measure sugar levels in their blood," Mr Pohlmann explained.

"My research will apply similar concepts, but will develop devices that will measure illicit drug and explosive quantities in different samples such as saliva, blood and air."

Mr Pohlmann foresees the devices could be used extensively with the law enforcement sector and the aviation transport sector. The project has the support of the Forensic Section of Queensland Health Pathology and Scientific Services.

Although Mr Pohlmann has only recently commenced his PhD studies with CQU, he has a long history with the University dating back to 2001.

As a year 11 student at Shalom College in Bundaberg, he began studying single courses as part of the Bachelor of Aviation Technology degree through CQU's School-Links Non-Award Program (SNAP).

SNAP is designed for gifted and talented Year 11 and 12 school students to undertake individual courses at a first-year university level while still completing the requirements for the Senior Certificate and gaining an OP. Students can seek credit for studies completed as SNAP students in award university programs in which they may subsequently enrol.

 "I attended lectures at the University outside of school and by completing these subjects I gained Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) recognition for completing aeronautical exams required to obtain my pilot's license."

Trent Pohlmann is researching his PhD topic at CQU Rockhampton"By completing the subjects while still at school, I became confident that I would receive a quality education at CQU."

Mr Pohlmann went on to complete a Bachelor of Science (Chemical Science) at CQU, followed by an Honours program in Applied Science and Chemistry.

"CQU's smaller class sizes meant a lot of hands-on experience in laboratories, unlike many larger universities where students may only be able to watch laboratory demonstrations ... Practical experience is very attractive to potential employers."